Stress-less living- How to effectively navigate and reduce daily stress

We live in a fast-paced world, where the ups and downs of the daily grind, the demands of raising a family, and the nerve-wracking pressures on the work front often impact the overall quality of life. It is impossible to eliminate these stressors from our lives, so instead of running away from this crippling stress, the best strategy is to take actionable steps to reset our mind and body.

Have you recently experienced a significant life change, such as divorce, death, work-related stress or financial challenges, and finding it difficult to cope? Well, it’s not uncommon to experience stress in our daily lives at the hands of challenging life transitions, but prolonged stress episodes, coupled with unexplained symptoms like persistent headaches, muscle pain, weak immune system and gastrointestinal issues, must not be ignored.

At ImamConnect, we have a team of dedicated Counsellors, Therapists, Psychotherapists, and Mental Health Counsellors, who are well-versed in accurately accessing and addressing the early bodily cues associated with chronic stress. With their personalized assistance, you can develop effective stress relief strategies and coping mechanisms to regain functionality, increase your productivity, manage your emotions, and tackle your day-to-day affairs.

Practical tips for stress-less living

Balancing work and familial responsibilities, establishing boundaries, nurturing social connections, prioritizing mental and physical health, and embracing a positive mindset are crucial steps to mitigate the negative implications of stress. Here are some practical stress management techniques that you can incorporate in your daily routine:

• Meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing

Mindfulness is rooted in the belief that, being humans, we need to detach ourselves from the undue pressures of the past and future and focus on our present. Every day, take a few minutes to engage in meditation and deep breathing exercises, as it will activate your body’s relaxation responses to reduce stress levels, fostering a sense of calm and inner peace

• Me time

You juggle work and domestic duties all day, so when you are alone at night, try to take out some “me time.” Avoid screens and expend your time journaling, reading, or even engaging in self-care practices such as skincare. It will help you to sleep better, diminish stress and unwind all the pressures to recharge your body for the next day.

• Engage in physical activity

Research shows that exercise stimulates the release of endorphins that act as natural mood lifters and also reduces the cortisol levels. Try to engage in moderate-intensity 45 minutes of physical activity at least four to five times a week. It could be anything: walking, jogging, cardio, strength training, yoga, or even dancing.

• Make sustainable lifestyle choices

Sleep can be a powerful antidote for stress resilience. Establish a sleep schedule and aim for at least 7 to 9 hours daily, allowing your body to recover from the day’s stressors. Also, follow a plant-based diet that includes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary caffeine, processed foods, and sugar.

Do you frequently grapple with stress and struggle to control your emotions? The Mental Health Counsellors at ImamConnect, can assist you in identifying the underlying sources of stress, develop effective coping mechanisms and adopt healthier lifestyle choices for holistic wellbeing.

Book a session today to empower your loved ones in seeking the treatment and support they deserve, paving the way for a stress-free life.